Chandler James, Author at The Riverside Project

When we talk about The River, you’ll often hear us use the words upstream and downstream. This is because we believe it’s vital to show up for children and families along every stretch of the foster care journey. Some children are at risk of falling into The River due to family instability or crisis. Others are already struggling to stay afloat. In this post, we’ll unpack what upstream and downstream support look like and how we can use both to help children and families find footing on dry ground.

This guide is a collection of simple, meaningful ways to say, “You’re not alone. We see you. We’re in it with you.”

Whether you’re a neighbor, friend, church, or business, these ideas help create rhythms of care that don’t overwhelm or overstep—but gently remind families that healing happens AS ONE.

Julie Dumalet is the Director of the Archdiocese Office of Pro-Life Activities. The Pro-Life Office continually seeks new ways to promote the dignity of human persons through initiatives such as St. Joseph Ministry Foster Care and Families.

As a foster parent, you will have people who love you and people who get you. And sometimes, those who love you the most may get you the least.

It’s our responsibility as foster parents to protect our kids. To protect their bodies, yes. But also to protect their stories.

Nicole Davis is the executive director of Operation: Achieve Independence (OAI). OAI focuses on supporting youth aging out of foster care by providing mentoring, life skills training, education, and career preparation.

“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” is inspired by the powerful true story of Donna and Reverend Martin as they ignite a fire in the hearts of their rural church to embrace some of the more difficult children to place within the child welfare system.

One person’s passion can lead to a vibrant foster care and adoptive ministry at their church and through collaboration.

As you consider the possibility of providing a loving home for children in need, there are many steps between learning about the need for foster families and becoming one yourself.

We’ve learned that it’s only when we all come together that we can begin to make a lasting difference around our city. These four stories are powerful illustrations of how collaboration leads to change!